Combining on-the-job training experience with formal training

Taylor-Maree Raffoul, 18, is a trainee working with Microsoft’s host company 365 Mechanix to develop apps for businesses while she completes a Information Technology course. The trainee program is delivered in partnership with TAFE NSW and Microsoft, through Group Training Organisation MEGT, and combines on-the-job practical experience with formal training from TAFE NSW. 

It’s an important time to be studying IT, with the outlook for software and application programming jobs strong, and a recent report by Deloitte finding that women comprise less than 20 per cent of the Australian ICT workforce. 

 Taylor says her favourite aspect of the TAFE NSW course was learning hands-on skills such as coding that she applies daily in her work environment: “With the pandemic forcing so many businesses into the digital space there is great opportunity in the IT industry to help businesses move online, which is becoming more and more essential."

 “I’ve really enjoyed putting the skills I’ve learnt in my course into practice and helping businesses create solutions to their problems through technology," says Taylor, picture below with Mechanix 365 founder Bruce Sithole.

Traineeship Program a win-win for students and IT industry

Founder of 365 Mechanix, Bruce Sithole, said Taylor’s ability to quickly learn the Microsoft Power Platform was impressive. 

“Not only has Taylor been learning the technology quickly, she has shown promising consulting skills by working with some of our customers to solve their business issues with technology,” Mr Sithole said. 

“I look forward to watching her grow within our organisation and become a key member of our business.”

Teachers onboard with industry

TAFE NSW head teacher in Information Communications Technology, Phillip Lennon, says training partnerships such as the one between Microsoft and TAFE NSW are a win-win for students and employers, and deliver the skilled workforce the ICT industry needs.  

“Programs give employers the opportunity to see the skills and abilities TAFE NSW students can bring to a workplace," says Phillip.

"High-quality training combined practical experience allows our students to hit the ground running from day one of the job.” 

The Information and Communication Technology courses are continuing and incorporate online learning and web-conferencing technology. 

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